Penarth RNLI lifeboat rescue drifting yacht
Penarth RNLI launched its Atlantic 85 lifeboat on Sunday (16 April) to reports of a vessel with engine failure two miles north east of the River Rhymney, drifting with one person on board.
The skipper of the casualty vessel was well prepared and able to give accurate coordinates for his position. There were a number of vessels in the immediate location, but radio contact was maintained with the vessel and the lifeboat's VHF direction finding equipment was able to help the volunteer crew pinpoint the casualty vessel quickly and accurately.
A lifeboat crew member was put on board and a tow was established before the vessel was towed three miles in to Cardiff Barrage, where it was met by HM Coastguard.
Jen Payne, Penarth RNLI volunteer Helm, said: 'We would like to praise the skipper of the casualty vessel, who demonstrated both a good level of seamanship and high standard of equipment on board.
'By passing accurate information clearly over his VHF radio we were able to help him quickly and efficiently.
'We would encourage all skippers and their crews to regularly practice safety drills, make sure they have the appropriate level of training before taking to the water, always wear a well sized, properly fastened and well maintained lifejacket or buoyancy aid and carry the appropriate means of calling for help should something go wrong.
'All vessels are encouraged to use the CG66 form (UK) or the SafeTrx app (RoI) and give the coastguard passage information. You should also inform someone ashore of your passage plan, your return time and how to contact the coastguard and what to tell them if you are overdue.
'Knowing where you are is also an advantage. By keeping your charts up to date and learning basic navigations skills, you will decrease your chances of going aground on sandbanks or rocks.'
For more safety information visit the RNLI website at https://edit.rnli.org/safety/respect-the-water/activities/Pages/sailing-and-motorboating.aspx
Notes to editors:
The attached picture shows Penarth RNLI's Atlantic 85 class lifeboat with the stricken yacht in tow.
For more information please telephone Penarth RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer Andy Berry on 07951 051128 or Chris Cousens, RNLI Press Officer, Wales and West, on 07748 265496 or 01745 585162 or by email on [email protected]
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The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.
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